We were invited to take part in one of the Botanical Gardens’ organised day events. Originally, the plan was for us to be outside, but with the weather turning a little chilly, we were thankful to be set up indoors instead.

Several of our members arrived bright and early at 8:00 a.m. to help prepare the room and move the boxes containing our displays and sales items. A big “Thank You” goes to everyone who pitched in – your help made the setup run smoothly. By the time we were ready to begin, most of the tables and chairs were in place. In total, we had 21 tables and Steve’s lathe set up neatly in the corner.

Nineteen people took part in the display, with some members’ wives also showcasing their own crafts, which added extra variety and colour to the day. Their contributions were very well received and we hope to see them again at future events. The Botanical Gardens kindly kept us supplied with tea, coffee, cakes, and biscuits throughout the day – for which we were most grateful.

A number of members were selling their own pieces, offering a great mix of different items. We also had Nikki’s cross-stitch, Georgie’s felt work, fabric containers made by Bill’s wife, and Kim’s “Krafts” of handmade cards and other creations.

As usual, we had our two charity tables in support of Mary Stevens Hospice.

New for this event was a gallery of members’ work destined for the Wolverhampton Craft Gallery Exhibition, where it will be on show for the next three months.

The event ran from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a steady stream of visitors passing through. Steve and Brian took turns on the lathe, making spinning tops for the children, who were delighted to choose their own colours for decoration.

The Botanical Gardens were very pleased with how the day went and felt our presence was a welcome addition to the event – a sentiment we are happy to share.

Report by Barrie Fisher & edited by Steve Hackett